Thermo King introduces heat pump for electric buses

Thermo King, a supplier of transport temperature control solutions and a brand of Trane Technologies, has introduced the TE Series heat pump for battery-electric buses in moderate and colder climates. Part of Thermo King’s all-electric, high-efficiency TE Series product line, the company said the new heat pump enables fleet operators to extend bus range, further reduce emissions and maintain passenger comfort, even in challenging conditions.

Thermo King’s TE Series heat pump was designed to enhance the performance of battery-electric buses in moderate and colder climates. (Illustration: Thermo King)

Battery-electric buses have decarbonized the public transportation sector for over a decade, but traditional electric resistance heaters significantly reduce operating range by drawing energy from vehicle batteries. The new heat pump addresses this issue by applying Trane Technologies’ expertise in heat pump technology, which has been applied across commercial buildings and homes, to public transit applications.

“This product is a critical step in continuing to make public transportation more efficient, reliable and eco-friendly, proving that decarbonization and operational excellence can go hand in hand,” said Chris Tanaka, vice president of product management for Thermo King Americas. “Our TE Series heat pump represents the future of sustainable transit. By applying heat pump expertise, we are equipping fleet operators with innovative solutions that extend beyond emissions reduction alone.”

The heat pump’s design extracts heat from ambient air rather than generating heat from battery power, resulting in up to 2.5 times more energy efficiency than conventional electric resistance heaters, which translates to more miles per charge, said the company. Buses equipped with the component can achieve up to 50% more range at moderate temperatures (40°F) and up to 30% more range at colder temperatures (20°F) compared to those using electric resistance heaters, said the company.

The system effectively keeps passengers warm as ambient temperatures drop to approximately 20°F without the need for backup heating. In colder climates requiring auxiliary heat, the heat pump reportedly allows for extended bus routes and reduced reliance on battery recharging. This not only decreases the frequency of recharges but also minimizes emissions at the power source.

The TE Series heat pump builds on Thermo King’s existing TE Series product line, using familiar control strategies and operational modes that require minimal additional training for technicians or operators. Automated comfort systems handle heating, auxiliary heating and defrost modes internally, which reportedly reduces manual steps for drivers and prioritizes passenger safety for year-round reliability.

Unlike diesel heaters, Thermo King said the heat pump produces no direct emissions, and its energy use minimizes indirect emissions tied to electricity generation, making it a low-carbon, sustainable solution for transit authorities and bus manufacturers committed to maximizing decarbonization while delivering reliable, on-time service to their communities.

Transit professionals attending the APTA (American Public Transportation Assoc.) TRANSform Conference and Expo in Boston September 14-17 can learn more about the TE Series heat pump and speak with Thermo King experts at Booth No. 910.